Stoner optimistic on injury progress

The former world champion had been extremely concerned when he continued to suffer wrist pain in the previous test at Sepang, having hoped that surgery in November would have completely cured the physical problems that marred the second half of his 2008 season.

After Sepang, Stoner said that there would be "plenty to worry about" if his wrist remained an issue when testing resumed at Losail this week, but he was much happier following last night's session.

"We have worked well and we've made progress with the set-up of the GP9 so it has been a positive day despite the difficult track conditions," he said.

"Pretty much the same goes for the wrist - it's obviously still not 100 percent yet but it is better than Malaysia and better than I was expecting for this test, so it's looking hopeful from that point of view too.

"In general I am satisfied."

Stoner was fastest by 0.6 seconds on his Ducati last night, ahead of reigning champion Valentino Rossi (Yamaha).